Definition

1. Adverb:
   • It seems that; It appears that: Used to express a tentative, uncertain judgment or assumption based on immediate perception or feeling, not on firm evidence. It softens a statement, indicating the speaker is not completely sure.

Usage Examples

• Adverb:
  • Hình như trời sắp mưa. (It seems like it's about to rain.)
  • Hình như tôi đã gặp anh ở đâu đó. (It seems I have met you somewhere before.)
  • Cửa hàng hình như đã đóng cửa rồi. (The shop appears to be closed already.)

Advanced Usage

• "hình như là...": Often paired with "là" to mean "it seems that..." or "I think that...", further emphasizing the tentative nature of the observation.
  • Hình như là cô ấy không hài lòng. (It seems that she is not pleased.)

Variants and Related Words

• Dường như (adv): Seems like; appears to be. A very close synonym, slightly more formal.

  • Dường như có một sự hiểu lầm. (There appears to be a misunderstanding.)

• Có vẻ như (phrase): Looks like; seems like. Often used for visual impressions or stronger appearances.

  • Cô ấy có vẻ như rất mệt. (She looks very tired.)

Synonyms

• Seem: To give the impression of being something.
• Appear: To seem or look a certain way.
• I think (when used to express uncertainty): Used to preface a tentative opinion.

Related Idioms and Phrases

• Hình như không phải: Seems like it's not; I don't think so. A common phrase to gently express doubt or contradiction.
  • Hình như không phải anh ấy đã làm điều đó. (It doesn't seem like he was the one who did it.)

verb

1. to seem ; to appear